Patrolmen - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

law enforcement

A patrolman is a police officer who is assigned to patrol a specific area or neighborhood to maintain public safety and order. Their duties often include monitoring for criminal activity, responding to incidents, and assisting the public. Patrolmen typically work in uniform and are visible in their assigned areas to deter crime and provide a sense of security for residents. They are often the first responders to emergency calls and play a critical role in community policing.

Synonyms

constable, cop, lawman, officer.

Examples of usage

The patrolmen observed suspicious activity in the neighborhood.
Patrolmen are trained to handle various emergencies.
The community felt safer with patrolmen on duty.
Patrolmen often engage with local residents.

Interesting Facts

History

The role of patrol officers has evolved from ancient sentinels who guarded city gates to modern-day police forces responsible for community safety.
During the 19th century, professional police departments began forming, with patrolmen as the first line of law enforcement.
In many cities, the introduction of patrolmen significantly reduced crime rates by providing visible authority in neighborhoods.

Pop Culture

Patrolmen often appear in films and TV shows as heroes, emphasizing their role in protecting citizens and upholding justice.
In popular video games, players sometimes take on the role of patrol officers, highlighting strategic decision-making in community policing.
Comic books and graphic novels have depicted patrolmen as part of superhero narratives, adding a layer of complexity to their everyday roles.

Community Impact

Regular patrols can foster trust between police and community members, leading to more collaborative safety efforts.
In some neighborhoods, patrolmen have become involved in community events, emphasizing a positive relationship rather than a purely authoritative presence.
Today, many patrolmen are trained to handle not just law enforcement but also community engagement and support.

Psychology

The presence of patrolmen in an area can create a sense of security among residents, often referred to as the 'policing effect.'
Studies show that visible patrols can deter criminal activity, contributing to a safer environment and reduced anxiety among community members.
Comfort with patrolmen often depends on how officers build relationships within the community and their methods of engagement.

Origin of 'patrolmen'

Main points about word origin

The word 'patrol' comes from the French term 'patrouiller,' meaning to walk through or traverse an area.
Historically, the idea of patrolling dates back to military practices where soldiers would observe and secure a perimeter.
The suffix 'men' indicates that these are individuals who partake in the act of patrolling, aligning with the concept of watchfulness.

The term 'patrolman' has its roots in the word 'patrol', which originates from the Middle French 'patrouiller', dating back to around the 17th century. Initially, patrol referred to the act of going around a certain area to watch, observe, or monitor. The addition of '-man' signifies a male individual performing the duty of patrolling. The role of patrolmen became particularly prominent in the 19th century with the establishment of formal police forces in major cities, which sought to maintain order and provide security. As urban areas grew, the necessity for individuals dedicated to patrolling streets and neighborhoods became vital. Thus, the term evolved to describe police officers who actively engage in these responsibilities, ensuring the safety and security of the communities they serve. Today, the word encompasses both male and female officers engaged in patrolling duties, although it still retains its traditional form.

Patrolmen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations